Project Description

Deloitte Consulting is the implementing partner for the USAID-funded Urja Nepal Project based in Kathmandu. This position is under Deloitte Consulting Overseas Projects LLC. The purpose of Urja Nepal is to create a financially viable electricity sector that provides affordable, reliable and secure power and enables the entry of private investment into the Nepali market.  This is anticipated to be a five-year program, however the position is currently for one year with possibility of renewal based on funding and project need.  This part time position is based in Kathmandu. 

Communications Specialist - The Communications Specialist will be responsible for leading Urja Nepal’s communications activities and supporting program counterparts with communications activities. 

The position is part-time at 20 hours per week, with the possibility to increase up to full time at 40 hours a week depending on finalization of responsibilities. The position reports directly to the Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP).

Responsibilities: 

• Working with project leads, identify how improved communications and/or public relations (PR) may support governmental program counterparts’ performance, as needed
• Advise program counterpart organizations on communications best practices, as needed
• Support the development of communications documents and materials for program counterparts, as needed
• Review and edit major deliverables, to include reports and studies, in various publication forms for readability, spelling, grammar, accuracy, punctuation, consistency, and logic.
• Develop project external communications materials from conceptualization and design through distribution 
• Facilitate project’s public events such as openings, press conferences, forums, seminar and conference speaking engagements, news releases, and online media outlets.
• Develop the project’s Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan, in compliance with USAID and contract requirements
• Develop and oversee the communications calendar to ensure timely execution of communications activities
• Maintain event calendar and support in the execution of program events including ensuring that events are properly publicized, well-attended, exhibit appropriate and USAID-compliant marketing materials, and that schedules are coordinated to reduce scheduling conflicts
• Support the development of project reports, including writing, copy editing, formatting, and assessing for compliance with policies and Branding and Marking guidelines
• Provide translation of documents as required between English and Nepali 
• Lead development of Success Stories, including identifying successful program activities to feature, conducting research and interviews, drafting content, sourcing images, formatting/design, managing the internal approval/review process, and coordinating distribution
• Lead creation of an Urja Nepal photo bank, including taking photographs and working with contracted photographers as needed
• Maintain a thorough understanding of USAID communications and branding regulations, as well as contract limitations, and inform/educate others on these requirements as necessary
• Interface with USAID/Nepal communications staff to ensure all communications and published materials meet USAID and USG standards
• Manage the project’s social media content and accounts (as permitted by the client and contract, and according to regulations)

Qualifications:

• Fluent in written and spoken Nepali 
• Fluent in written and spoken English
• Bachelor’s Degree in communications, journalism, or another relevant discipline
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience, including 3 years in similar role(s) supporting communications and / or public relations activities for public or private sector organizations, or donor projects in development work (USAID experience is preferred)
• Experience coordinating gender-related activities for donor projects is preferred, including developing a Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Plan, analyzing the impact of Program activities on marginalized groups, and designing and implementing activities to increase opportunities for and participation of women, youth, and other marginalized groups
• Experience coordinating and leading the development and / or implementation of environmental mitigation and monitoring plans in the context of energy – related activities is preferred
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, including the ability to quickly spot a “Success Story” and to write a compelling positive profile of an activity, event, individual, or organization
• Exposure to and understanding of energy-related technical terminology preferred
• Sound computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office® applications, particularly Word and PowerPoint. 
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite or similar graphic design software will be an added advantage
• Team player, willing to take direction from project management and work with others
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills
• Flexible and adaptive personality
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment
• Self-starter, willing to take initiative, remain accountable, take ownership of work product and escalate issues as appropriate
• Dedicated to professional development, improvement and open to receiving constructive feedback

Application Instructions 

DCOP LLC is an equal opportunity employer.  Please ensure resume/application DOES NOT INCLUDE personal information such as gender, age, marital status, ethnicity, religion. This position is open to Nepali nationals only.